Content, LinkedIn Marketing Tips, Social Media Tips

How Do I Write a Good LinkedIn Summary?

Filling out your LinkedIn profile can be intimidating, and it is common to be unsure what to write in your LinkedIn summary. After all, your LinkedIn profile summary is much different than your basic job description. And for job seekers, the LinkedIn summary because it is the first thing most hiring managers will see! While your own LinkedIn summary needs to be unique to you and your professional life, it can help to look at a great LinkedIn summary example or two for inspiration. In the following article, we will be illustrating how to write a good LinkedIn summary to help you stand out on a network with 722+ million members.

What is a LinkedIn Summary?

Before we get into how to write a compelling LinkedIn summary, you need to understand what the purpose of the summary is. Located at the top of your LinkedIn profile, the summary box is an open-ended space where you can write up to 2,000 characters on your professional ambitions.

To make it clear, you do NOT want to simply summarize your profile and work history because well – they have access to that information. Instead, you want to discuss who you are in a sincere manner and from your personal point of view. This means including elements of your personality, contextualizing your career, and highlighting some great achievements, as well as academic and professional experiences. Essentially it should give your readers an idea of what to do next – whether that’s accepting your network invitation or reaching out for a job opportunity.

Also, be sure to identify why you are using LinkedIn in order to write your summary accordingly. Is it for reputation management? Is it to market yourself and business? Or is it to find a job?

Importance of LinkedIn Summaries

Now you might be thinking: is it really necessary to have a good LinkedIn summary? Yes, and in fact, it’s one of the most important areas on your profile. It’s part of the first impression viewers get when looking at your profile and it’s an opportunity to introduce yourself. Also, when recruiters search for candidates, the LinkedIn algorithm takes your summary content into account. So, hiring managers may see your LinkedIn summary section and consider bringing you in for job interviews.

linkedin summary examples

How to Write a Good LinkedIn Summary

Now that you’re convinced, it’s time to see what factors make a great LinkedIn summary.

Captivating Hook

Remember that LinkedIn only shows a preview of your summary (the first 3 lines or 290-310 characters) unless the user clicks “read more.” So, it’s important that you start strong so that the reader becomes curious, interested, and inclined to click.

It would be best to start off with the most important idea you want recruiters to know about you. One idea could be using your creative writing skills to give a unique opening about yourself. Ask yourself: What are my top soft skills that allowed me to achieve powerful results? What do I love most about your job? What’s a great lesson you learned in previous experiences? These ideas should help you get an eye-catching opening statement.

A Personal Touch

A great LinkedIn summary is written in the first person. The text is about you speaking directly to the reader, so there is no need to hide that. In addition, be sure to talk about what makes you different from competitors in your field. However, it’s important to keep in mind that each industry differs in preference when it comes to writing styles. The creative industries usually prefer a more casual writing style, while other industries such as the field of computer science, might prefer a more serious or factual writing style. All in all, you want to get the reader interested in you.

Keyword and Content Rich

In order to increase your appearance on search inquiries, be sure to use specific keywords in your text. This is because LinkedIn includes summaries that have relevant keywords on the top of the search list. However, make sure to stay authentic while doing so. In addition, take your time to avoid any grammar or spelling mistakes.

You also have the option of complementing the text with visuals – such as informative photos, videos, articles, or a noteworthy e-portfolio.

Keep It Simple and Focused

You want to make sure it’s easily readable with scannable formatting – meaning include short paragraphs and bullets or lists. In addition, while writing keep in mind who your audience is and how they will be able to identify with your text. You should be thinking about what they need and want to know about you as well as how they could benefit from you as a connection.

It’s recommended to follow a clear structure. One example could be: a hook, followed by a goal, then the skills and expertise with proof/evidence, and concluded with a CTA. If you need help, check out a LinkedIn summary template.

linkedin summary

LinkedIn Summary Examples

Now it’s time for some practical LinkedIn summary examples where you can get some inspiration. In addition, here is a LinkedIn summary generator to help you get started.

1. Demonstrating Passion

One great way to start off your LinkedIn summary section is discussing your passion. Show that you are more than just your job history. For instance, you might say “I am an educator who is passionate about the Montessori method of teaching to improve practical learning for children of all socioeconomic levels.” This can be followed up with a fact or statistic to support why this passion is valid and important. By describing why your job is rewarding to you and for others, it will lure the viewer to click “see more.” This should then be followed by the companies you have worked for and the results you have obtained. Here you are combining your passion with established expertise.

2. Starting with a Story

You can explain to the reader the first time you realized you truly enjoyed working in a particular industry. Remember that stories resonate with people. For instance, you can bring back a story from your youth that is most memorable to you. A good start can be “Ever since I was a little kid, [insert job title] has been my passion.” Then, you go on to explain the story that inspired you to feel this way. It wouldn’t hurt to include some humor.

Let’s say you are a music producer and the first time you tried to produce a track you thought it would be done using a virtual DJ set. Or let’s say you’re a computer scientist and the first time you got a code to work it felt like magic. In this approach, be sure to have a balance between industry keywords, hard skills, and humility. Showing recruiters you are humble and willing to continue to learn is important.

3. Engage Possible Clients or Potential Employers

In a short one or two sentences, explain how your business or service makes the lives of customers easier or better. Then follow that with a quick fact about yourself and something you enjoy doing.

For instance, if you are a job seeker, you want to appeal to potential employers.

Here’s another example: “Helping companies make their social media pages more appealing through graphic design services @[the name of the company].” Here the reader, no matter who they are, understand what they can benefit from connecting with you. Then you can follow it with “I lived in [city name] my whole life.” or “Born and raised in [city name].”

Lastly, you want to end with something you do in your free time, like “frequently reading” or “always cracking jokes.” This will add a touch of personality to your professional ambition. A few personal details will help potential employers get to know you.

how to write a good linkedin summary

4. Speak to the Readers’ Concerns

Without mentioning yourself initially, a great way to lure prospects in is by speaking to their worries directly. For instance, a marketing expert might discuss how frustrating it is to invest money in the wrong campaigns, or how sales are seemingly unpredictable. Following up on this point, it would be smart to actually provide them with a partial solution or piece of advice. In this case, mentioning the trick to make better campaign predictions or what the key assets a company should focus on.

In addition to this, you can illustrate your buyer’s persona and guarantee them that they are in the right place. Don’t be afraid to specify who you are talking to.

5. Factual Approach

Not all industries care for a creative narrative or passionate opening. Rather, they want to know exclusively about what projects you have worked on, tech proficiencies, and certifications. For instance, a software engineer might list: programming languages, database, tools, methodologies, servers, etc. The point here is to focus on what you know and the results you acquired.

6. A 360-View of Your Job, Your Company, and You

In this approach, you want to give the reader an idea of what your current role is, why you enjoy it, what company you work for, and end with some personal facts about yourself. Mention what makes your company different in the field (such as company culture) and why your role excites you. Then, when wrapping up, you get personal about hobbies and interests such as your favorite sports team, where you grew up, your favorite genre of music, or a special collection you have.

Remember that you can use a mix of more than one approach. You might find that starting with a story and speaking to prospects concerns work well together. Also, it might be useful to see a list of what NOT to do and make sure you are avoiding those.

how to write a linkedin summary

LinkedIn Summary for Marketing Professional

If you are in the digital marketing industry, then you know the importance of your LinkedIn bio. You can create an effective LinkedIn summary by using relevant keywords to the marketing industry.

Get More LinkedIn Profile Tips

At SEO Design Chicago, we offer a range of services for your LinkedIn profile. If you need guidance writing the summary, we can help you through that. In addition, we can promote your profile via LinkedIn ad campaigns –  a great way to get noticed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Writing LinkedIn Summaries

1. How long should my LinkedIn summary be?

LinkedIn allows up to 2,000 characters (about 300-400 words) for your summary, and you should use most of this space effectively. However, remember that LinkedIn only shows the first 290-310 characters (approximately 3 lines) before users must click “see more.” Make those first few lines compelling to encourage readers to continue. Aim for 3-5 short paragraphs that cover your professional value, key achievements, and personality. A well-written summary of 1,500-2,000 characters provides enough space to tell your story while remaining engaging and scannable.

2. Should I write my LinkedIn summary in first person or third person?

Always write your LinkedIn summary in first person using “I” statements. This creates a more personal, authentic connection with readers and makes your profile feel conversational rather than like a formal resume. Writing in first person allows you to speak directly to potential employers, clients, or connections, which is more engaging than the detached tone of third-person writing. Since LinkedIn is a social networking platform, the personal approach helps build relationships and trust with your audience.

3. How often should I update my LinkedIn summary?

Update your LinkedIn summary every 3-6 months or whenever you have significant career changes, new achievements, or shifting professional goals. Regular updates keep your profile fresh and show that you’re actively engaged on the platform. Major triggers for updates include: job changes, completing significant projects, earning new certifications, changing career focus, or achieving notable accomplishments. Even minor refreshes, like updating metrics or adding recent achievements, can help maintain your profile’s relevance and improve your visibility in LinkedIn searches.

4. What keywords should I include in my LinkedIn summary?

Include industry-specific keywords that recruiters and potential connections might search for. Research job descriptions in your field to identify commonly used terms, skills, and qualifications. Include your job title, core competencies, software/tools you use, industry buzzwords, and specific skills relevant to your goals. For example, a marketing professional might include terms like “digital marketing,” “SEO,” “content strategy,” “lead generation,” and specific platforms like “Google Analytics” or “HubSpot.” Use keywords naturally within your narrative rather than simply listing them, and aim for 5-10 relevant keywords throughout your summary.

5. Can I include achievements and metrics in my LinkedIn summary?

Absolutely! Including specific achievements and quantifiable results makes your summary much more compelling and credible. Use concrete numbers, percentages, and measurable outcomes to demonstrate your impact. For example: “Increased sales by 35% over 12 months,” “Managed a team of 15 employees,” or “Generated $2M in new business revenue.” These specifics help potential employers or clients understand the tangible value you can provide. However, balance metrics with storytelling to maintain readability and personal connection.

6. Should I mention personal interests and hobbies in my LinkedIn summary?

Yes, but strategically. Including 1-2 personal interests can humanize your profile and create connection points with readers. Choose hobbies that either relate to your professional skills (like “passion for data analysis extends to fantasy sports statistics”) or demonstrate valuable qualities (like teamwork through sports, creativity through music, or leadership through volunteer work). Keep personal details brief—a sentence or two at most—and ensure they add value rather than distract from your professional message. Avoid controversial topics or anything that might alienate potential connections.

7. What’s the biggest mistake people make in their LinkedIn summaries?

The most common mistake is treating the summary like a resume by simply listing job titles and responsibilities instead of telling a compelling story about your professional value. Other major mistakes include: writing in third person, focusing only on what you want rather than what you can offer others, using too much industry jargon, having no clear call-to-action, and failing to optimize for keywords. Many people also either leave their summary blank or write something generic that doesn’t differentiate them from others in their field. Remember, your summary should answer “Why should someone connect with me?” not just “What jobs have I had?”

8. How do I write a LinkedIn summary if I’m changing careers or industries?

When transitioning careers, focus on transferable skills, relevant experiences, and your passion for the new direction. Start with your career change goal and motivation, then highlight skills from your previous experience that apply to your target industry. Emphasize learning initiatives like courses, certifications, or volunteer work in your new field. Use keywords from your target industry while explaining how your unique background brings fresh perspective. For example: “After 10 years in finance, I’m passionate about transitioning to UX design, leveraging my analytical skills and recent certification in user experience research.” Show enthusiasm for learning and growth while demonstrating the value your diverse background brings.

Nick Antonopoulos

Nick Antonopoulos is the Chief Marketing officer of SEO Design Chicago. Nick has over a decade of experience in Content Creation, SEO and Digital Marketing working with small businesses all the way up to Enterprise level clients.

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